Dark Blues boss Barry Smith is close to agreeing a loan deal that would see Kilmarnock midfielder Harkins return to Dens Park until the end of the season.

The 28-year-old moved to Killie from Dundee in 2011 and Kerr, who played alongside Harkins at Dens, is convinced he could be the key to starting their revival.

Kerr said: “It would give everyone at Dundee a massive lift. Gary was a real hit for them the first time and if it all goes through I’m sure he could be just as influential again.

“Gary is the kind of player who relishes whatever challenge is in front of him and he’d definitely be up for it.

“He’ll have a lot of good memories from being there before, especially having played an important part in keeping them in the First Division when they were docked 25 points for going into administration.

“Gary has shown he can cut it in the SPL and what he would bring to Dundee would be huge. I know from playing in the same midfield as him he’s capable of big things.

“He can turn a game with one bit of brilliance, is strong from set-pieces and provides a goal threat. He has that extra bit of quality you need.”

Dundee’s teenage striker Martin Boyle has gone out on loan to Alloa while fellow youngster Jamie Reid has joined Stenhousemuir.